A mild drama played out in the Senate on Tuesday when Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, clashed during deliberations on the Criminal Code Amendment Bill.
The bill, presented by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, seeks to increase the punishment for aiding or procuring abortion from three to ten years in prison without an option of fine. It also aims to update Nigeria’s criminal laws in line with modern social and medical realities.
Debate became heated as lawmakers disagreed over what qualifies as “unlawful abortion.” While Senator Saliu Mustapha argued that abortion can be medically or religiously justified, Senator Abdul Ningi warned that the bill could discourage doctors from providing life-saving care.
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Following the argument, Akpabio suspended further discussion and directed the Judiciary Committee to review the bill and report back in two weeks. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan sought to speak, saying, “I am a woman, as abortion has to do with women. It is very important, sir.”
Akpabio declined, insisting the matter had been stepped down. Adams Oshiomhole then raised a point of order, warning that breaking the rules for her would set a bad precedent. Akpabio upheld his objection, ruling Natasha “out of order.”
Speaking later, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed disappointment, saying she felt silenced on a matter affecting women’s rights and health.
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